Plans to build 500 homes and expand the town of SheptonMallet amount to more than “just another housing estate”.

Ben Murphy, from the Duchy of Cornwall, said the involvement of local people would make sure development off Cannards Grave Road worked for the community.

He said: “Through working with local people to help shape the plans, we believe that we are bringing forward a sustainable community which creates a real sense of place and not just another housing estate.”

On Friday (April 21) developers C G Fry & Son and the Duchy of Cornwall will hold the final public drop-in exhibition on the “masterplan” and outline planning application.

Mr Murphy believes the event will allow Shepton residents to ask any questions they still have about the large number of new homes.

He added: “I’m incredibly thankful for the interest and effort local people have put in so far. Without the local knowledge that’s been shared, we would not be able to create the type of development which works for the community and supports the local area.”

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In September 2016 the first draft of the “masterplan” was unveiled. At the heart of it was a so-called “green spine” linking Shepton’s Collett Park with new outdoor spaces on the new development.

The plan also includes a new school, the relocation of the Mid-Somerset Show and space for new shops.

Last year town councillor Garfield Kennedy welcomed the focus on open spaces but called for guarantees to make sure the green areas were not simply built on in a few years’ time.

While district councillor, Bente Height, said she opposed the plans altogether – fearing the new development would become another “island”, cut off from the rest of Shepton, like Tadley Acres.

She also said another joint C G Fry & Son and the Duchy of Cornwall project, Poundbury near Dorchester, was “not all that brilliant”.

Plans unveiled in September 2016, showing a 'green spine' linking a new 500 home development to the

David Lohfink from C G Fry & Son said it was only possible to make minor changes to the plans now but all feedback would be considered.

He added: “Members of the community in Shepton Mallet have been vital in helping us shape our plans so far. I’d encourage local people to come to our drop-in session to give their final thoughts before we submit a planning application to Mendip District Council.”

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The exhibition will be held at Mendip District Council Chamber, Cannards Grave Road, BA4 5BT.

Members of the community are invited to drop-in anytime between 1.30pm and 8.30pm on April 21 to see the latest masterplan and supporting information, as well as talk to the project team and have their questions answered.

If you are unable to attend the event, information and feedback forms are available on the website www.cannardsdevelopment.co.uk, which will be updated following the event. Alternatively you can request information to be sent via post by contacting the engagement team on 0800 377 7348 or info@cannardsdevelopment.co.uk.